US and Iran Make Progress on Peace Deal, But Issues Remain

Negotiations between the US and Iran have seen significant progress, with a potential ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz discussed. However, key issues like Iran's nuclear program remain unresolved, making the final agreement uncertain.
By Newsroom | International Relations, Middle East |

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN - US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported "significant progress" in ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, aimed at ending the protracted conflict. The purported breakthrough, however, remains clouded by uncertainty, with President Donald Trump indicating that any agreement is "not fully negotiated" but would be "good and proper" if finalized.

Details of the proposed accord, as reported across various outlets, suggest a multi-faceted approach to de-escalation. Key elements include:

Iran, US and mediator Pakistan report progress in talks on ending war - 1

  • A ceasefire in the ongoing hostilities.

  • The reopening of the strategically vital ' Strait of Hormuz '.

  • The thawing of frozen Iranian assets held in foreign banks, reportedly amounting to $100 billion.

  • A potential lifting of the naval blockade imposed by the US on Iranian ports, alongside an Iranian blockade initiated at the conflict's outset.

While these points signal a potential shift, significant hurdles remain. The ' nuclear question ' and the ' conflict in Lebanon ' are explicitly stated as unresolved issues. The ' Hezbollah ' chief has voiced hopes that any agreement would encompass Lebanon, indicating a broader regional implication.

International Reactions and Internal Dynamics

The ' Israeli government ' is reportedly seeking assurances from the US President regarding the inclusion of the nuclear dossier. Meanwhile, ' Israel ', though currently absent from direct negotiations, is described as concerned about its diplomatic isolation.

Read More: Pakistan Says US-Iran Deal Details Being Finalized May 24

Iran, US and mediator Pakistan report progress in talks on ending war - 2

Internal political dynamics also appear to be at play. Reports suggest ' US military preparations ' for renewed military action are ongoing, though President Trump has not yet made a final decision. His cancellation of weekend plans, including a golf club visit and his son's wedding, hints at intense deliberation. Public opinion in the US is noted as increasingly opposed to further military escalation.

Context and Escalation

The conflict, which appears to have been initiated by the United States and Israel on ' February 28th ', has seen Iran claim to have "rebuilt" its forces during a ceasefire period and issue threats of widespread retaliation against the US. The nation has also been implicated in cyberattacks on US gas stations and has been suspected of espionage, including the defection of a former US operative.

Read More: Trump claims Iran deal near, but Hormuz tensions rise

Simultaneously, ' Israel ' has continued its airstrikes in Lebanon, with reports of an Israeli strike in Gaza resulting in civilian casualties. The ' United Arab Emirates ' has also been targeted by drone strikes near a nuclear power plant, with Iran being a suspect. The ' Pakistani army chief ' has been engaged in discussions in Iran, and reports suggest Pakistan may have allowed Iranian aircraft to use its bases for protection against the US.

The ongoing ' information warfare ' includes Iran's ' propaganda videos ' and mocking of President Trump, alongside accusations from Iran that media outlets are misrepresenting figures. The situation is fluid, with diplomatic efforts and military posturing continuing in parallel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the latest news on the US-Iran deal?
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported "significant progress" in talks between the United States and Iran. The deal aims to end the conflict and includes a ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Q: What are the main points of the potential US-Iran agreement?
Key points include a ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, releasing $100 billion in frozen Iranian assets, and lifting naval blockades.
Q: What issues are still causing problems in the US-Iran negotiations?
Major disagreements remain over Iran's nuclear program and the conflict in Lebanon. The Hezbollah chief hopes any agreement will include Lebanon.
Q: What are other countries and groups saying about the US-Iran deal?
Israel is seeking assurances from the US about the nuclear issue and is concerned about diplomatic isolation. The Hezbollah chief hopes any agreement will include Lebanon.
Q: What is the current situation regarding military action and public opinion?
The US military is preparing for possible action, but President Trump has not decided. Public opinion in the US is against more military action.
Q: When did the conflict start and what has Iran done?
The conflict appears to have started on February 28th, 2026. Iran claims it rebuilt its forces during a ceasefire and has threatened retaliation, and has also been accused of cyberattacks and espionage.